Thursday, July 5, 2012

And how do I even begin to express my thanks to each and every one of you?

Last week the counter on my blog passed 500,000. Half a million hits. I don't even know how to integrate that number. It truly boggles my mind. The Altered Page has become all that I dared hope it would. And more. All of you -- your visits, your comments, your emails, your blogs, and your support -- have become as important to me as my paint.

I sometimes wonder what my life in art would be like today without all that the Internet has offered. It has provided me with a community, an education, a forum, and an outlet. It has offered me opportunities to share and sell my art. It has given me a voice. It has opened doors which I have happily and eagerly walked through. I am a broken record when I say that I would not be the artist I am today without my blog. And without all of you!

Those of you who know me, know how focused and single-minded I can be when I have a goal that I am passionate about. And I have worked very hard to create the world of The Altered Page. But I can honestly say that every bit of effort and time that I have dedicated to this has been more than worth it. And I am beyond excited thinking about the ideas I have for future projects and all the amazing experiences that have yet to unfold.

2012 has been and continues to be a dream year for me. It has been a year of firsts, some of which have yet to even be announced. These have included my first book and my first set of workshop DVDs. And as a small token of thanks to you, I would like to offer you a gift. In blog-speak that translates to a giveaway.

To be eligible, all you need to do is leave a comment to this post AND make sure that I have a way of contacting you -- Blogger often doesn't automatically post the emails of commenters. Comments will be closed at the end of day on Monday, July 9th.

Two people will win and the prizes are two bundles, each of which will include signed copies of:

The Pulse of Mixed Media: Secrets and Passions of 100 Artists Revealed

189 comments:

Seth,It is obvious how much time and devotion you put into your blog. It is so much more than "a blog". You've created a window that opens wide to so many avenues ~ your art, the art of others, interviews, collaborations, shows, books, inspiration, and on and on. Thank you for that! And thank you for the opportunity to have a chance to win your generous and exciting giveaway. Audrey

no matter what . . . i always look forward to see what you are up to -via your posts- congratulations on all the good things that have come your way. you deserve it. i have learned so much from you, and i always feel that if i have a question, you will help me figure out an answer.thank you seth, and congrats again.

Wow, 500,000 is a HUGE number. Congratulations to you. Its all your hard work and commitment to the arts and the arts community that reward you. Your generosity is uplifting! with love, Janine (janineATjaninewhitling.com.au)

Hi Seth and congratulations - that figure is mind boggling! It's been such a pleasure following you over the last few years and seeing your blog grow - I don't visit often at the moment but you are still on my favorite list! Please count me in to the giveaway - thanks for all your devotion

Congratulations!! Yours was one of the first blogs I stumbled upon even before I set up my own. So thanks for inspiring me to go for it set up Inkhaven and for creating something that has drawn so many people in. Here's to the next exciting adventures! Please can my name go into the hat? Thanks. Ax

Seth you have opened my world to so many techniques and thought processes. Your insights and choice of art seem to come at the exact moment I need it. Thank you for sharing your amazing creativity. Vicki

Seth, I have admired your work since I bought a copy of The Pulse many many years ago. I will never forget that you emailed and told me that it only consisted of text, just to make sure that I would not be disappointed. I loved it and still love reading it. I recently bought a copy of your new book. Perfect! And I will be buying the DVD's! Can't wait! Thanx for all that you do. My email is busesrkool(at)yahoo(dot)com

500,000 hits!! Well done and congratulations. It is due to your own effort and dedication to making this site what it is. And inspiring everyone and making us all feel welcome from beginner to accomplished master. Thank you. :)

Glad to be one of the first post 500,000 commenters! Thanks for inviting us all on this marvelous ride with you! You so deserve all the wondrous things that have happened this year. Couldn't happen to a nicer guy!Erin

I have already been lucky enough to win something on your blog so you don't have to include me in the giveaway, but I wanted you to know that thru your blog I have discovered so many wonderful mixed media artists that have had an influence on my work. Congratulations on your well deserved success!

Congratulations yet again Seth -It's been great watching your art grow and your many successes -The World is an oyster and all one has to do is go out and pluck it out of the shell, or something -And Thanks for the chance to win a great share = Cheers!

You're right Seth, you have worked very hard and I am so happy to see it pay off in such a big way for you.

If I win, I will donate the book to our local library, which I have been secretly building up the mixed media section for the past 10 years (there was none when I first started going there!) and I'll keep the dvds.

Wow, half a million...I know what an amazing feat that is and it is a tribute to the quality of art and inspiration you offer here at The Altered Page. Sending a cyber hug, my friend...congratulations :)

Although I came a little late to the party that is "The Altered Page," clearly it is a worthwhile endeavor since I and so many have decided to hang out. You're a fabulous host and HUGE CONGRATULATIONS!! on this awesome, awesome milestone.

This is sooooooo exciting! Congrats on 500,000!!!!!! You are an inspiration to so many and so generous to offer such an amazing give-a-way!!! Thanks for this opportunity. Sandy - discoverycloth@ymail.com

Seth, it comes as no surprise that your blog hit this number...I'm sure more to come soon!! As you said, slow and steady wins the race, and you've won big time. Many congrats...as always, well-deserved! Joyce

Seth, I have to agree with you... the blog world has opened up so many opportunities and online friendships for you.. and for me too. Your blog is always so full of information, creativity, connections, and generosity.

Count me in for your giveaway Seth! I agree that the internet is an enormous benefit to any artists. I have learned, shared and been awed by the incredible amount of talent I have access to via the web :).Stay inspired!Michellebrainangles@cogeco.ca

Thank you for all your hard work in creating this space for us to gather and to visit with one another. You have opened doors and shown me artists - great discoveries! - all thanks to "The Altered Page"

Congratulations to you on your success - I'm sure there will be many more firsts!xx

No surprise that you've had half a million hits...this is the standard for mixed media art...a zillion thanks for making your blog available to those of us who aspire to reaching our goals. All praise for you is well deserved.

JoanLVJesse at Yahoo dot com (replace symbols for words and remove any spaces)

I've had all kinds of internet and computer problems, so I even missed out on seeing I made the Still Life segment on Sunday. Had I been able to, I would have touted it, as well as your 500,000 hits.

I agree that you are the best of the best. I've been making mixed media for nearly nine years, and I am such a novice compared to you and what you have managed to accomplish over these past few years. I'm really impressed. You are my hero!!

As a result, I would love to win your giveaway. It's probably the only way I will ever be able to meet you and put my hands on these wonderful tutorials. All I can say is, it would be a thrill to own these DVDs and the book. (Please contact me via the cox account WHEN I win [grin]).

Seth, I am overjoyed at your success. I enjoyed meeting you in Bellevue, WA a couple months ago. I would love to own your DVD's. I got a taste of your process when you did a background demo and was pleasantly surprised to see you use many of the same techniques I use. Good luck in the future!

Seth, And THANK YOU. I'm sure we all wonder what art life would be without your Blog....no surprise at the number of fans you have generated.Your blog is personal, creative and entertaining; not to mention the fact that it is a place every artist needs to stop by to gain info on what is spinning in the mixed media world. Congrats! I would be estactic to win your generous prize.

I am so glad I saw a link to your blog on a friend of mine's wall. I am now following you via email and would love to win your generous giveaway. Thank you for offering and congrats on the 500,000 hits, makes me even happier I am following now....

Wow Seth, Congratulations. Your dedication and believe in community is wonderful and I want to say thank you. I own your lovely book, and continue to enjoy it. I have no doubt that the DVD's are just as wonderful. Thanks for the generous giveaway, whom every wins it will be over the moon delighted!

Seth you have given us all so much I cant imagine life with out your wonderful blog and your giving nature.Hope to see you again next year when I come to New york again that was the highlight of my trip.Congrats on every thing Jen

Yikes! A half million hits! Now that is a lot. And very well deserved. I have really loved looking at your blog and seeing all the wonderfully creative things you do.Keep up the great work and congratulations.Pamelapgerardphoto@hotmail.com

Congrats to you dear Seth. I have never met you personally but you seem like such a nice person - a gentle soul. I'm sure other people "feel" it through your words. Thanks for the opportunity to win such an awesome giveaway. Should I be one of the lucky ones please contact me at bkisrael@gmail.com. Thanks so much!

So glad to see you reach your milestone, you are well on your way to a million and I know you will get there. Thank you for this awesome opportunity to win this awesome prize. Its Been great to connect with you and to read your blog,tmac1999@gmail.com

Seth, Do you ever sleep? Man you have worked super hard for the half million! I really appreciate getting to know all the artists featured in your book! It makes me think that I could do that too! I'd love to be a winner - your DVD's are really enticing.

Seth, huge congratulations! Half a million hits - just shows how much you are loved and appreciated. Your give-away is very generous and certainly one I'm sure everyone would love to win, including me, so thank you for the opportunity, and thank you for the wonderful blog.

Congratulations Seth that's a fantastic milestone. I love that you are living your dreams and that you generously share your experiences and knowledge. In doing so you provide inspiration for those who follow your blog..

Gratitude is the path to true and utter joy, something I'm very much working on these days, and your post is such a beautiful and inspiring example of it! Congratulations and a huge thank you for connecting us all! You deserve every bit of your success, so enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!!!Laly (www.lalyblue.com)

You deserve every success. Your blog, and your commitment to a true mixed media community represents the very best of the internet. Thank you for introducing me to so many wonderful artists and here's to the next 500,000!

Wow, Seth, congratulations! I know I have been very inspired by your blog and your work, and I thank you for your hard work. I am excited by this giveaway, I would love to win so consider my name dropped inthe hat :)Thanks again

WOW Seth, I'm impressed! But, I'm not surprised. I'm the one that needs to thank you. I visit The Altered Page each day to see your new creations, new projects, and new collaborations. You have been my inspiration on many levels...words don't do my gratitude justice. So, a big Thank You. You deserve the best.I'd love to win.bethbynum@aol.com

Seth, It sounds like your blog has gone viral! Fantastic!Now that I'm incorporating mixed media into what I do again; I also think of you and all the amazing artwork you post...It is very inspirational. Thank you and congrats!

Having read your blog from nearly the beginning, I am aware of all the hard work you have invested in it and your artwork. You deserve all the success and I wish you much more. Having just started a blog, I can appreciate all your hard work even more. Thanks, and I am looking forward to what comes next!

Having read your blog from nearly the beginning, I am aware of all the hard work you have invested in it and your artwork. You deserve all the success and I wish you much more. Having just started a blog, I can appreciate all your hard work even more. Thanks, and I am looking forward to what comes next!

Seth,You have earned each one of those 500,000 hits. I don't know too many artists that are as dedicated and have such an online presence. There are a few, but just a few. Keep living your dream!xoMarilyn

Hi. I just discovered your blog and signed up last week but I'm glad I could help push you over the 500,000 mark. I look forward to following your posts. And I'd LOVE to win copies of your books and DVDs. Thanks.pattielane@gmail.com

Thank you from the bottom our hearts Seth....you have welcomed us all, created a wonderful community of like minded people.2012, a year of firsts...I like that! Wishing you much success and happiness in what you do.

hey guy---bundle me up !!! what great gifts--Seth, you know how much you have helped me--you deserve anything and everything that comes your way--i just don't know how much time you have to sleep!!! sam

Congratulations! I am new to the 'altered' world and discovered your blog vis Amazon author pages of Jill Berry and Quinn McDonald. I am eager to explore your posts and lessons much further; thank you for the opportunity. Best wishes, Michael (mcy3@yahoo.com)

A new follower here...and SO excited to find you. I see I have a LOT of catching up to do....but there's SO much inspiration that it will probably be "the two-step"...one forward, one back. lolThanks for the chance to win the giveaway. Thanks even more...just for being.

THE THANKS GO TO YOU, Seth! Thank you for continuing to bring together such a wonderful community of artists, for continually inspiring and engaging so much potentiality, for being the warm and compassionate and caring soul that you are.

I'd be glad to drop my name into that hat! elms72701 (at) gmail (dot) com

Wow, that's quite a number of hits Seth!!! I have been off the computer (aaargghhh - when computers break down we notice how attached we are to that machine, isn't it?) but back online full force now and just in time to congratulate you! I would certainly love to win your package... count me in! - Oh, and I 'see' you next Wednesday ;)

Seth, you deserve every bit of success you've achieved. you are proof that hard work and perseverance really do pay off. Can you come and talk to my students about that? They get really tired of hearing me say it...

Count me in here at Number 166 in the comment line...that is if I hit the send button in time (very unlikely as I am a long-winded gal as you know! HA!). Seth, you are a gem, a peach, an educator, a friend, a thinker, a seer, an artist, an enabler and buckets more art friend! You did for me what you talk about the internet doing for you...so thanks for that. In my 'speak' I just mean that you opened my eyes and now I feel capable. Like I said, you are an enabler. Have a tremendously splendid Sunday in New York. I'm having one of those in Vancouver, Canada. *smiles* Norma

What a great awe inspiring achievment! And I can see how you reached half a million hits when you can achieve 173 comments to one posting- in 4 days time! It's really a privilege to be in this inspiring community of mixed media artists.

Seth, you deserve all of the wonderful things coming your way as you have always been so generous in giving a hand up to those of us who are just beginning the journey. Half a million thank you's to you!

Congratulations! Love hearing the joy in your words at the gratitude of those who follow your blog. Doing art is a joy to our soul to give as a gift for others to enjoy. Keep giving joy away through your gift of art! Nancy G

Wow Seth, 500,000 is indeed a grand number of hits! You have made that happen! All your hard work that has gone into this blog and all you do has brought that many people to see what it is you create and offer other artists! I am happy for you! (If I were a family member I'd say I was proud of you too! ;-)

I am also excited for all you have created this year, the books, the dvds, the workshops, the collaborations, the interviews, the art shows in galleries, the book talks all over the country, my goodness, your list just seems endless. I know I am leaving a lot out.

I also feel that my blog and all the blogger friends I have made have made me the artist I am today. No doubt about it. It's an awesome thing to have and to continue experienc(ing).

Bravo to you, kudos to you, and I just see more and more years ahead of greater numbers and more exciting endeavors and creations pouring forth from your font!Your cup runnith over with wonderful ART and goodness!

Hi Seth -- thanks so much for sharing your wonderful art and talents with us! I love your work, and am thrilled with your giveaway - that's really generous and kind. :) Take care and have a great day!Laura

Wow, SethAll I did was blink and there were several posts I missed here! Truly, summer is flying by fast!YOU have been such an inspiration to ALL OF US!!! The praise goes both directions~I already won your book 'The Pulse' From Trudi of 'Two Dresses' but I would absolutely LUVVV to win one of your DVD's in the collage textures.I don't know when your giveaway date ends, so I hope I am still allowed a chance. But, you know, it's not really about winning anything (I seem to be on a roll lately!) it is the comradeship of kindred mixed media artists is what it's all about. The more the merrier!Cheers! For a fabulous year!Teresa in Californiatscat@sbcglobal.net